"The Fated Rival of the Moon"

Return to the Estate

Azrael Kaelthorne walked through the grand gates of the Kaelthorne Estate, his black coat still damp from the mountain's lingering cold. The weight of his new strength pressed against his skin, a silent storm of power waiting to be unleashed.

Inside the grand hall, Family Head Kaelthorne sat on his throne-like chair, surrounded by officials and noble retainers. Azrael approached with calm, measured steps.

"My training was successful. I have returned."

The Family Head's golden eyes, identical to Azrael's, narrowed slightly. A flicker of curiosity passed over his face before he nodded.

"Good. You may go."

Azrael bowed slightly and left without another word. He had no need for unnecessary conversations.

As soon as he exited, the Family Head's gaze darkened.

---

Summoning the Shadows

With a single flick of his fingers, the air shifted. From the depths of the room, dark figures emerged from the shadows, kneeling before him.

These were the assassins of the Kaelthorne family—the Black Vultures, a secretive group that only obeyed the direct orders of the Family Head.

"Watch over Azrael Kaelthorne," he ordered. "I want to know everything he does."

The shadows vanished into thin air.

The game had begun.

---

System Inventory & A New Sword

In his private chambers, Azrael leaned back in his chair, summoning the System Inventory. His rewards from the old cave were neatly stored—gold, the Necklace of the Phoenix, and his vast increase in stats.

But something was still missing.

"System, open the shop."

The translucent blue window appeared, displaying a list of weapons. His golden eyes scanned through them until he found it.

---

[Shop Purchase]

Weapon: Sable Requiem (Peaceful Death)

Effect:

+25 Strength

+25 Agility

+25 Aura

Passive Ability – Death's Grace: Increases lethality and precision when striking fatal points.

Price: 8,000 System Points

[Purchase Confirmed.]

---

A black and silver blade materialized in his hands, its edge humming with silent killing intent. The katana's design was simple yet elegant, its aura exuding a quiet, deadly peace—a blade meant for absolute execution.

Azrael smirked slightly.

"Perfect."

He unsheathed it once before storing it away. His preparations were now complete.

---

Final Preparations & The Engagement Banquet

Four days passed in a blur. His stats were now all above 100, and his presence alone had become sharper, colder. Servants had begun whispering about how the once-forgotten son of Kaelthorne now radiated an aura even stronger than some of the knights.

The day of the engagement banquet arrived.

Servants dressed him in a finely tailored black suit, accompanied by a flowing black coat. His silver hair, now slightly longer, framed his sharp, noble features. The golden eyes of his mother gleamed in the mirror—cold, piercing, and untouchable.

---

Banquet Hall – The First Meeting

The grand Velmira Palace was alight with gold and white decorations. Nobles gathered, discussing politics and alliances. As Azrael entered, the room quieted slightly, eyes turning toward the enigmatic Kaelthorne heir.

[System Notification]

Quest: Meet and talk with Elaris Velmira

Reward:

+5 Stat Points

+120 System Points

Azrael's lips curled slightly. The true game had now begun.